My visit to Banff was one of my most memorable trips, not because I packed every second with activities, but because I slowed down and soaked it all in. Nature, mountains, hot springs, cool hikes…it was the perfect mix of adventure and peace. Therefore, if you’re planning a short trip and want something low-key but memorable, this Banff travel itinerary has all the things I did and what I recommend.
Day 1: Springs, Caves & Chill
Cave and Basin Historic Site
This spot is kind of a big deal, it’s where Canada’s national park system began. Indigenous communities have known its value for thousands of years. Here’s what to expect:
- Walk through a tunnel into the original mineral cave (heads-up: it smells like sulphur).
- Learn about conservation and the quirky Banff Springs Snail through hands-on exhibits.
- Stroll the boardwalk and marsh trails, keep an eye out for wildlife (I saw deer!).
The entry ticket to this site costs CA$9 per adult or you can get a Thermal Waters Pass that gives you access to both this site and Banff Upper Hot Springs for CA$24 per adult. Check out the official website for more information Cave and Basin Historic Site.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
After exploring the Cave and Basin, make your way to Banff Upper Hot Springs for a well-deserved break and to soak in the stunning views. The hot spring is located at a very high elevation and has great views of the Canadian Rockies. Moreover, the hot spring is a geothermal water rich with minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sulfate which are great for soothing sore muscles. For entry, you can purchase an adult ticket for CA$17.50, or alternatively, opt for the Thermal Waters Pass Combo mentioned earlier. Banff Upper hot springs has lockers, showers, and change rooms along with rentals for swimsuits in case you forget yours. Also, there is an onsite café as well as a gift shop to remember your time here. See the official website for more information: Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Day 2: Iconic Lakes & Big Views
Lake Louise
Tourists flock to Lake Louise not only for its stunning turquoise waters but also for the wide variety of activities it offers. In addition, the Fairmount Chateau is a historic luxury hotel located on the lakeshore of Lake Louise and it has stunning views and cozy accommodations. There are lots of things to do in Lake Louise in the summer like: canoeing, hiking to Lake Agnes teahouse, and wildlife spotting. Additionally, in winter, you can go ice skating on the lake, skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides.
I went in the summer and I did a hike to the Fairview Lookout to see the stunning views of the lake and hotel from the top. You can bring a personal vehicle, but parking is limited. You can also book a shuttle, transit or guided tour as an alternative. For more information and things to do, check out Banff Lake Louise.
Moraine Lake
This lake is one of the breathtaking destinations in Banff National Park. Its striking turquoise-blue waters, fed by the Fay Glacier, create a scene straight out of a postcard. Furthermore, It is a picturesque location with the Valley of the Ten Peaks mountains acting as a great backdrop for your photos. The lake is typically opened from June to October and adequate planning is required to visit. Parks Canada restricts personal vehicle access to Moraine Lake, so you’ll need to book a shuttle, transit, or guided tour. These spots fill up quickly so make sure to book in advance. I used the Roam Transit – Route 8X and I was able to book 2 months in advance.
The shuttle cost was CA$26.50 for a roundtrip and Lake Connector shuttle. In addition, the Lake Connector shuttle takes you between Moraine Lake and Lake Louise at no additional cost. For more information about the lake and surrounding trails, see Banff Lake Louise – Moraine Lake.
Day 3: Town Time & Mountaintop Views
Explore Banff Avenue
Start your day off by exploring the town of Banff, specifically, Banff avenue. This is the main street in the town of Banff with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes. Stroll along the street, buy some souvenirs to take with you and head over to the Banff sign for a photo to mark your trip. The sign is currently located on Mount Norquay Road but is set to be moved later this year so make sure to check online before going.
Also, you can explore the Cascade of Time Gardens and admire the beautiful flower beds and clear ponds.
Banff Gondola & Sky Lounge
To visit the Banff Gondola, you need to purchase tickets for your desired time slot online. You can take the Roam Transit for free by showing your ticket to the driver.
Firstly, Head up to the Sulphur Mountain in the gondola and take in the views of the mountain ranges of Banff town. Once at the top, you can walk across the boardwalk to the Cosmic Ray Station and Sanson’s Peak, or learn more about Canada’s first national park.
If there is still time, you can grab some food at either the Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen or Sky Bistro. I ate at Sky Bistro and they had really good chicken wings and desert options. To book your Gondola tickets, check out Banff Gondola.
Getting Around
You don’t need a car to get around. Here’s how I did it:
- Roam Public Transit: This is the public transit in Banff that takes you to the different tourist attractions.
- Walking/E-bikes: You can walk around the townsite or rent e-bikes for scenic rides.
- Shuttles/Taxis: Most hotels offer free shuttles to local spots and you can also hire taxi rides for short trips or airport transfers.
Where to Stay
Budget ($)
- Banff Ptarmigan Inn: Centrally located in Banff National Park and a few steps away from the downtown area. This hotel offers complimentary bus passes and has lots of other amenities. See Banff Ptarmigan Inn for more information.
- Charltons Banff: A boutique style hotel with guest rooms, loft suites, and kitchenettes. The hotel also has an indoor mineral pool, hot tub and a steam room. See Charltons Banff for more information.
- Samesun Banff: Ideal location for solo travelers and conveniently located close to the greyhound station and mountain trails. Check out Samesun Banff for more information.
Mid Range ($$)
- Hotel Canoe & Suites: One of Banff’s newest accommodations with stunning canoe decor. I stayed at this hotel and it was very clean, had easy access to the bus stop and the rooms had balconies with mountain views. To book this hotel, check out Hotel Canoe & Suites.
- Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa: A mountain lodge style hotel with a full spa and an onsite steakhouse. See Banff Caribou Lodge for more.
- Elk + Avenue Hotel: Located close to restaurants and the downtown nightlife. The hotel offers modern decor and onsite dining. Check out Elk + Avenue Hotel to book.
Luxury ($$$)
- Moose Hotel and Suites: The hotel offers 2 rooftop pools, an indoor pool, complimentary bus passes, pet-friendly, and onsite restaurant. See Moose Hotel & Suites to learn more and book.
- Fairmont Banff Springs: The iconic “Castle in the Rockies” which offers golf, wildlife, skiing and hiking. See Fairmont Banff Springs for more information.
- The Rimrock Resort Hotel: An exclusive mountain retreat with elegant rooms, great mountain views, and close proximity to the hot springs. Checkout Rimrock Resort Hotel for more information.
Where to Eat
- The Balkan Mediterranean Restaurant: Greek restaurant with lively atmosphere and weekly Greek dance nights.
- Tooloulou’s: A Cajun-Creole and Canadian infusion with a quirky vibe.
- Lupo: Traditional Italian meals with a modern twist.
- Grizzly House: Serves fondue and exotic meats like alligator and rattlesnake.
- Farm & Fire: Wood-fried Canadian comfort food.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Banff for hiking and lake views is late June to early September.
For fewer crowds and shoulder season deals, you can go between September – October.
November – March is best for skiing, snowboarding and ice skating.
If you’re dreaming of mountains, chill days, and some serious nature therapy, Banff delivers. Just plan ahead for transit and bookings, and you’re good to go.
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